How to Reach

How to Reach

Kollam (Quilon) is well-connected to the rest of Kerala and India through a convenient network of railways, roadways, and waterways. Whether you're arriving from nearby cities like Trivandrum, Kochi, or Madurai, or traveling from farther away, reaching Kollam is smooth and scenic.

 By Air: Nearest Airport

✅ Trivandrum International Airport (TRV)

 Distance: ~66 km
 Travel Time: ~1.5–2 hours by road

Why choose it?

• Closest airport to Kollam
• Well-connected with major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad
• Direct international flights to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Colombo, Singapore, and more

 Tip: From the airport, hire a taxi, use a ride-hailing app, or take a KSRTC bus to reach Kollam.

 By Train: Kollam Junction (QLN)

 Located in the heart of the city

• One of the busiest and most important stations in Kerala
• Serves trains from Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi, Madurai, and Trivandrum

 Popular Trains to Kollam

• Kerala Express (via Delhi–Chennai–Trivandrum)
• Netravati Express (via Mumbai–Goa–Mangalore)
• Anantapuri Express (Chennai to Kollam)
• Vanchinad Express (Ernakulam to Trivandrum via Kollam)

 Tip: Book in advance during peak travel seasons (Oct–Jan, April–May).

 By Road: Well-Connected Highways

 By Bus:

• KSRTC (Kerala State Road Transport Corporation) operates frequent buses to/from:
  • Trivandrum (70 km)
  • Alleppey (85 km)
  • Kochi (140 km)
  • Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, Madurai, and Coimbatore
• Options include superfast, deluxe, AC Volvo, and private buses
• Bus terminals: Kollam KSRTC Bus Stand & Andamukkam City Bus Stand

 By Car/Taxi:

• NH-66 (Panvel–Kanyakumari Highway) runs through Kollam
• Ideal for scenic drives along Kerala’s coast and backwaters
• Good road conditions and picturesque views of lakes, canals, and greenery

 Tip: Rent a car if you’re planning day trips to places like Thenmala, Varkala, or Ashtamudi.

 By Water: Backwater Access

While not a primary entry mode, Kollam is connected by water to Alleppey via the famous Kollam–Alleppey backwater cruise (about 8 hours).

• A slow but scenic and memorable journey through Kerala’s finest backwaters
• Great for leisure travelers and photographers

 Tip: Book houseboat or ferry tickets through tourism offices or trusted operators in advance.

 Distance from Major Cities

Kollam is easy to reach, well-connected, and worth the journey—whether you're hopping on a train, flying into Trivandrum, or cruising along the backwaters. Once you arrive, the lush lakes, warm hospitality, and coastal charm await you.

Reaching Kollam is your first step into Kerala’s calm and cultural heart.